Lagos, September 2025 – The Special Foundation has triumphantly wrapped up its 2025 Special Summer School, held from July 28 to September 4, 2025, spanning 14 educational hubs within underserved communities across 9 Nigerian states. This initiative offered children vital learning experiences, mentorship, and creative outlets throughout the extended holiday period, promoting continuous development beyond the conventional academic year.
In its eighth year since launching in 2018, this year’s program positively influenced over 24,500 individuals. Participants ranged from out-of-school youths in Minna, Niger State, who acquired skills in tailoring and shoemaking, to young adults in Nekede LGA, Owerri, Imo State, who explored solar energy technologies. The curriculum emphasized essential literacy, numeracy, and vocational training, while also nurturing creativity, self-assurance, and collaboration among attendees.
The success of the program was powered by a dedicated network of volunteers, educators, and corporate collaborators including Credit Direct Limited, Descasio, Macadams Baking Systems Nigeria Limited, Duale, Ovia & Alex-Adedipe Law, De Miller Farms, UAC Foods, and Nigerian Bottling Company. Alongside more than 423 young professionals from partner organizations, they facilitated engaging lessons, extracurricular activities, nutritious refreshments, and provided school supplies, creating a supportive environment where every child could flourish.
Community involvement was a highlight of the summer school. For instance, at the Ikota center, teenage volunteers from the Rockstars at Kindness nonprofit revitalized two classrooms with vibrant murals, enhancing the learning atmosphere. Meanwhile, the Macadams Baking Systems team conducted an immersive week-long workshop at the Makoko center, inspiring 100 participants through practical baking sessions using advanced equipment.
The Special Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to cultivate Africa’s future leaders through education. This vision has galvanized volunteers, institutions, and corporate entities to invest their time and resources in expanding opportunities for children in marginalized areas. The Special Summer School exemplifies this commitment by fostering an environment that encourages learning, empowers aspirations, and ensures inclusivity.
“Our goal has always been to nurture a generation of African leaders by providing access to quality education,” stated Seyi Akinwale, Founder of The Special Foundation. “In 2025 alone, we reached over 24,500 children across 9 states and 14 centers. Looking ahead, we plan to broaden our reach to 15 states next year, deepening our impact and touching more young lives.”
“We operate in economically challenged communities with the aim of leaving no child behind,” added Seyi Akinwale, who also visited the Makoko center. “Our investment in the nation’s youth is deliberate, focusing on equipping them with practical skills and fostering a genuine passion for learning through this structured summer program.”
Beyond academics and vocational training, the program embraced the arts, with over 470 participants at the Bariga center showcasing their talents in dance, poetry, and music. These creative expressions underscored the Foundation’s dedication to supporting diverse dreams, whether children aspire to be artists, medical professionals, or engineers.
A particularly touching story emerged from the Zaria center in Kaduna State, where 11-year-old Brave Sunday confidently announced her ambition to one day be addressed as ‘Her Excellency.’ Initially shy and withdrawn, Brave blossomed throughout the program, gaining friendships, confidence, and inspiration.
Brave’s journey reflects the transformative impact of the Special Summer School, a key element of The Special Foundation’s broader mission to enhance educational access for disadvantaged African children. Alongside scholarships, mentorship, and infrastructure development, the program champions inclusive learning spaces that unlock potential and kindle hope.
Discover more about The Special Foundation and its initiatives by visiting their official website.
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